Explaining the Staining: What’s Discoloring Your Teeth (and How to Fix It)

If you’ve noticed your teeth looking a little dull, you’re not the only one! Tooth discoloration is an incredibly common issue that many people want to erase from their smiles. But not all stains are created equal! Some are surface-level, while others go much deeper. The good news is that there’s a solution for every type of stain! So, if you’re ready to reclaim your bright smile with teeth whitening or other treatments, continue reading.

Extrinsic Stains: Surface-Level Annoyances

These are the most common and easiest to treat. Extrinsic stains affect the outer layer of your teeth, your enamel, and are usually caused by food, drinks, and habits. For example, the dark pigments in red wine, berries, and tobacco products can all stick around on your teeth.

Professional teeth whitening is often the best fix for extrinsic stains. In-office treatments can brighten your smile quickly, while take-home kits from your dentist offer powerful, but gradual results. You can also reduce staining by using a straw, rinsing with water after meals, and keeping up with daily brushing!

Intrinsic Stains: Deeper Discoloration

Intrinsic stains happen inside your teeth, often beneath the enamel. They can result from injuries, medications like tetracycline antibiotics, natural aging, and overexposure to fluoride.

With this type of discoloration, whitening alone may not be enough to restore your smile’s brightness. But not to worry! Options like dental bonding, veneers, or even multiple rounds of whitening can fully restore your tooth color or even take it a step further. Your dentist can help determine what’s best based on the severity and cause.

When Is Professional Treatment the Best Option?

While over-the-counter whitening products may help with mild staining, they can’t match the results or safety of professional care.

If you’re using store-bought options and your discoloration doesn’t improve, or if you start to feel intense sensitivity, it’s time to talk to your dentist. They’ll help you figure out the cause and tailor a treatment plan just for you.

Just because everyone gets tooth stains doesn’t mean you have to live with them. Once you understand what kind of stain you’re dealing with, the path to a brighter smile gets a whole lot clearer. With help from your dentist, you can refresh your appearance and confidence in one go!

About the Author

Dr. Hiren H. Shah is a skilled dentist who loves helping patients feel confident about their smiles. A graduate of the NYU College of Dentistry, he has completed extensive advanced training to offer safe, effective cosmetic treatments. He’s also a proud member of the American and New Jersey Dental Associations, staying current on the latest trends in dental care. Call (908) 834-8448 to schedule a teeth whitening consultation at Signature Smiles or visit our website to explore other services.